Soho

In his debut collection, Richard Scott explores the themes of love, gay shame, trauma, and the search for identity. The poems celebrate joy and tenderness while also examining the risks and challenges of sexual encounters. The collection culminates in "Oh My Soho!", a powerful and transformative journey of self-discovery.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 88 pages
Publication date: 05 April 2018
Publisher: Faber & Faber

In this captivating and profound debut, Richard Scott unveils an unyielding portrayal of love and the complexities surrounding gay shame. Delving into the profound impact of trauma on the language we employ, Scott takes us on a journey back to our origins, exploring childhood incidents, the hidden scars betrayed by our past, forgotten forebears, and the rich tapestry of histories that shape us. The poems accentuate the hunger and vulnerability inherent in sexual encounters, juxtaposed with the risks that arise when we surrender ourselves to or embrace others. Yet, amidst the shadows, there is a celebration of joy and tenderness, as Scott reimagines the love poetry of Verlaine in a sequence that evokes profound emotions.

The collection reaches its crescendo with Scott's tour de force, "Oh My Soho!" In this mesmerizing sequence, a nighttime stroll beneath the street lamps of Soho Square transforms into a quest for authentic lineage, a reclaiming of stolen ancestors, a yearning for healing, and, above all, an unwavering pursuit of self-discovery. Through these poetic narratives, Scott invites us to explore the depths of our humanity, challenging us to confront our fears, embrace our vulnerabilities, and discover the true essence of our existence.

Weight: 116g
Dimension: 200 x 185 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780571338917
Edition number: Main